Spring has finally arrived in the city, bringing with it the magic of cherry blossoms in Rome. In Japan, the sakuras-the cherry trees that so enchant-are already wrapped in the first delicate pink blossoms. In the Italian capital, too, cherry blossoms can be admired, albeit in select corners of the city and for a short time, when nature seems to give its most fleeting show.
Where to admire the cherry blossom in Rome?
The Japan Walk in EUR
In the Europa District in Rome is the “Japan Promenade,” which is a path that runs along Lake EUR famous for the presence of several cherry trees. Just as in Japan, the sakura blossoms dye the entire avenue pink and give passersby a memorable sight. The cherry trees were donated by the city of Tokyo to Rome in 1959 as a symbol marking the friendship between the Italian and Japanese people.
In 2025, experts have estimated that cherry blossom is expected to occur between late March and the first weeks of April. Specifically, EUR’s cherry trees are expected to reach peak bloom between March 30 and April 10.
The Japanese Cultural Institute
The Institute of Japanese Culture in Rome (ICJR) is a prestigious cultural institution that promotes Japanese culture in Italy. Founded in 1972, the institution is located in the Parioli district and during the year often organizes events related to Japanese culture, as well as Japanese language classes. The ICJR has a Japanese garden with multiple cherry blossoms, and in spring it is possible to admire their blossoming in a place of truly unique tranquility and beauty. Admission to the garden is completely free.
Hanami at the Botanical Garden
Located in the Trastevere district, the Botanical Garden of Rome is home to more than 3,000 species of plants from around the world. Established in 1883, the garden is an integral part of the University of Rome “La Sapienza” and an important center for botanical research and conservation. Part of the Botanical Garden is dedicated to Japanese culture, and during the Hanami period it is possible to admire the blooming of sakura trees .
This year, the Botanical Garden in collaboration with the Festival of Green and Landscape, organized the event “Hanami at the Botanical Garden,” an event under the banner of Japanese culture, where you can celebrate the blossoming of cherry trees and Japanese tradition surrounded by countless blooming sakuras. In addition to admiring the beautiful natural spectacle, the event offers various activities including origami and calligraphy workshops.
Ticket cost: €12 for adults; free for children under 11. All activities are included in the ticket.
Frequently asked questions about Hanami
What does Hanami mean?
Hanami (花見) literally means “observing flowers” in Japanese, where “hana” means flower and “mi” means to look or observe. hanami is a prominent tradition in Japanese culture, where we admire the blossoming of Japanese cherry trees, the sakura. Hanami is a time for reflection and connection with nature, as well as an event to socialize and spend quality time with friends and family under the shade of the cherry blossom canopies.
How long does Hanami last?
Cherry blossoming generally lasts one to two weeks. The time when Hanami occurs varies according to weather conditions, in fact cherry trees prefer warmer weather. This is precisely why in Japan Hanami begins earlier in the south in places such as Okinawa. The duration of cherry blossom also has strong symbolism in Japanese culture, where it represents the ephemeral and transient beauty of life, as cherry blossoms bloom for a short period and then fall quickly.